Raulee Tessa Sirina Morello, M.D., breast surgeon, is now seeing patients at Texas Breast Specialists–Bedford. Dr. Morello shares why she personally looks forward to spring every year and the importance of scheduling an annual mammogram for women.
What inspired you to specialize in breast surgical oncology?
Receiving a cancer diagnosis is a life-changing moment for patients and their loved ones. I can vividly remember, as a resident surgeon my first time on an oncology team, delivering a new cancer diagnosis. The patient immediately had tears in her eyes and had no family around. I remember wrapping my arms around her to comfort her. My attending physician and I reassured her everything was going to be okay and that we would be by her side every step of the way. I knew in that moment I wanted to make a difference by pursuing a career in breast surgical oncology.
What do you wish more people knew about breast health and/or breast cancer?
Early detection is key. This is why breast cancer screenings, such as routine mammograms, are so important. Women age 40 and up should get screened at least once a year; however, women of all ages should consult with their physician about when they should start the screening process based on their age, family history, and potential risk factors.
What is one surgical advancement you hope to see during your career?
I hope someday we will have the technology to treat patients beyond what we currently can do as surgical oncologists. In the future, I hope we have more treatment options for patients that improve their outcomes, as well as quality of life, whether that be a daily pill or coming in to get a vaccine. I would also love to see our surgical advancements continue to become more individualized and accessible to all cancer patients.
What’s the best volunteer experience you had and what did you do?
When I was in college, I taught mathematics and science to adolescents at a detention center, most of whom had a troubled upbringing. However, I am most proud of showing them that there are people out there who care about them and, no matter what, they are loved.
What season is your favorite? And why?
One of my favorite hobbies is gardening. Therefore, I enjoy the spring season because there is nothing I love more than watching my flowers bloom. Whenever this season rolls around, the world turns green and vibrant – it is always a joy to witness, and I look forward to it every year.
What song best relates to you?
Freddie Mercury once said, “The most important thing is to live a fabulous life. As long as it’s fabulous, I don’t care how long it is.” Queen’s song, “Don’t Stop Me Now,” highlights exactly this. I try to live each day to the fullest and always remember the things that are most important in my life, such as my family, friends, and the cancer patients I get to care for every day.